The Maritime Reporters’ Association of Nigeria (MARAN) inaugurates its newly elected Executive Officers during which the new President, Oluyinka Onigbinde pledges commitment to ethical journalism and sector collaboration
The newly elected President of the Maritime Reporters’ Association of Nigeria (MARAN), Mr. Oluyinka Onigbinde, has pledged to build a strong and united association that differs significantly from the one he inherited when he assumed office.
Onigbinde made this statement during his inaugural speech at the swearing-in ceremony of the newly elected executive committee of the association in Lagos on Tuesday, June 23, 2026.
Onigbinde stated his commitment to transforming MARAN into an organization that prioritizes skill development, embraces digital innovations, and consistently equips its members with the knowledge necessary to navigate the increasingly complex maritime industry.
He promised to collaborate diligently with his executive team to establish an association that champions investigative journalism, reportarge grounded in policy, and analysis based on data, along with aspiring to create a MARAN that fortifies connections with governmental bodies, global organizations, and private sector contributors, while upholding its editorial autonomy.
Onigbinde said, “We intend to create a MARAN that prioritizes the well-being of its members and fosters chances for professional advancement. Above all, I dream of a unified association.
“The elections are now a thing of the past. There are no camps remaining. There are no divisions. There exists only one MARAN. The mandate assigned to this executive is the responsibility of all association members. Regardless of your support during the election, today we stand as one family with a collective vision.
“I extend a hand of fellowship to all members. Let us collaborate with mutual respect, open conversations, and a shared dedication to advancing our association. No administration can thrive without the backing of its members”.
Adding that the improvement of Nigeria’s maritime sector necessitates authentic collaboration among regulators, operators, investors, and the media, the new MARAN President further stated, “To our esteemed government agencies and industry partners present here today, we thank you for your ongoing support of MARAN throughout the years.
“We promise that this administration will persist in engaging constructively, reporting with responsibility, and delivering balanced coverage that serves the sector’s growth.
“Where praise is warranted, we will offer it. Where constructive criticism is warranted, we will deliver it with professionalism and fairness. Our dedication will always lie with the truth and the nation’s best interests.”
Reflecting on the inauguration’s theme, “Upholding Ethical Journalism for Maritime Development,” the MARAN leader affirmed the timeliness of the theme, noting that the maritime industry remains one of the most vital sectors of Nigeria’s economy.
According to him, “It serves as the entry point for global trade, a significant source of government funding, and a key driver of economic expansion. However, sustainable maritime progress cannot prosper without reliable information, transparency, and accountability.
“This is where ethical journalism is crucial. As maritime reporters, our role extends beyond simply covering events. We are expected to inform, educate, investigate, analyze, and ensure institutional accountability. We must resist sensationalism, dismiss misinformation, and guarantee that every report we release is anchored on truth, equity, balance, and professionalism.
“Our reliability is our most significant strength. When the general public has faith in maritime reporters, decision-makers pay closer attention, and investors benefit. As such, adhering to ethical journalism transcends a mere professional duty; it serves as a driving force for maritime progress”.
The occasion gathered leaders from the maritime sector, government representatives, security personnel, freight forwarders, and media professionals.
In a keynote speech, the Chief Executive Officer of Indigo Integrated, Mr. Bolaji Abimbola, portrayed journalism as essential for fostering accountability, public confidence, and informed citizenship. He underscored the necessity of ethical reporting for advancements in both the national and maritime contexts.
Abimbola elaborated that maritime development includes shipping, port management, fisheries, offshore energy, coastal trade, and the blue economy, cautioning that unethical journalism could damage investor trust, warp public perception, and obstruct the execution of policies.
